StarCalc:
http://www.relex.ru/~zalex/main.htm
Easy to use, has most the features you'd want, can add a number of data bases.
Cartes du Ciel:
http://www.ap-i.net/skychart/
This is an involved programme that is not always easy to use but can add many many catalogs etc. and print good maps.
CNebulaX:
http://www.uv.es/jrtorres/index.html
More of a planning tool, learning curve but lots of great features.
HNSky:
http://www.hnsky.org/software.htm
Hallo Northern Sky but actually goes south too. Similar to StarCalc as compared to CdC or CNX.
Virtual Moon:
http://ap-i.net/avl/en/start
Focussed only on the Moon but handy for identifying things.
So far all Windows programmes. And there are plenty more out there.
Ricci's page:
http://www.pierpaoloricci.it/downloa...ftware_eng.htm
Has lots of material to link too.
Already mentioned Stellarium - v0.10 is not as buggy as others; I have it running fine.
What are the specs of the laptop? Stellarium uses a high frame rate - turn that down in the options and you might find it work better for your machine.
No comment on the $ ones.